Robeson County Public Library has acquired Pronunciator, an Internet-based language-learning application, which is available for free to anyone who has a library card. Pronunciator has courses for 60 of the world’s most popular languages, as well as ESL courses in 50 languages.

With five levels of instruction, the coursework includes interactive online drills, quizzes, and downloadable audio lessons. The audio lessons can be stored on your iPod, MP3 player or burned to a CD. Best of all, each lesson is about 30 minutes long — perfect for a car commute or session on the treadmill. One section, geared specifically for tourists and business travelers, provides phrases covering everyday situations.

To access the program and begin learning, visit our website www.robesoncountylibrary.org , click on the link and follow the instructions to register. You will be able to track your progress online. Pronunciator is designed for both children and adults.

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month. The American Library Association launched the sign-up campaign in 1987 to encourage every school age child to get a library card and to use it. Our library provides free access to both online and physical materials to support academic success from pre-kindergarten through graduate school. Children who use the library develop skills that foster success in school and contribute to a habit of life-long learning.

Beginning in September, the Lumberton Library will offer basic computer classes on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. We will be teaching Introduction to Microsoft Word 2007 on Tuesday and Sept 18. On Sept. 11 and Sept. 25, classes will cover email basics. Class sizes are limited and registration is required. Call 910-728-4859 to register.

Robeson County Public Library thanks the Campbell Soup Co. and Mike Miller, senior director of operations, for the generous donation of $5,000 to benefit the Gilbert Patterson Memorial Library in Maxton. This contribution will help us maintain a strong library presence for the residents of the Maxton community.

Remember that the annual Friends of the Library Book Sale is scheduled for Oct. 11 through Oct. 13. Come on Thursday afternoon for the selection.

All Robeson County Public Libraries will be closed on Monday for Labor Day. Have a safe and restful holiday weekend.

Catie Roche is the director of the Robeson County Public Library. You can reach her at croche@robesoncountylibrary.org. Catie is reading “The Weird Sisters” by Elanor Brown.